The Meaning of Ash Wednesday

Have you ever noticed Christians or Catholics sprinkled with ash on their foreheads? This unique practice is often observed on Ash Wednesday. Join us as we explore the meaning behind Ash Wednesday, shed light on what transpires on this day, and offer some ideas on how you can celebrate this meaningful tradition.

What is Ash Wednesday really about?

Ash Wednesday, also known as the “Day of Ashes”, falls six and a half weeks before Easter Sunday. It is a day of repentance to God, marking the first holy day of Lent, a season of prayer and fasting. This year, on February 14, 2024, Ash Wednesday coincides with Valentine’s Day.

The name Ash Wednesday derives from the old Jewish custom of wearing ashes on the head. The ash is a symbol reminding us that we were created by God from dust. Ashes also represent God’s mercy for repentant believers. Roman Catholic priests may gently apply ash in the shape of a cross on worshippers’ foreheads, quoting Genesis 3:19, “remember that you are dust and to dust you shall return.” He may also say “repent and believe in the Gospel.” The ash typically comes from the palms that were burned on Palm Sunday the previous year.

Should Christians Celebrate Ash Wednesday?

Ash Wednesday is mainly observed by the Roman Catholic Church and traditional Christian churches that celebrate Lent. It’s worth noting that the Bible doesn’t command Ash Wednesday, and the holiday isn’t explicitly mentioned. However, there are instances in the Old Testament where ashes are used as a symbol of repentance.

For example, Tamar “put ashes on her head” (2 Samuel 13:19), Mordecai “put on sackcloth and ashes” (Esther 4:1), and Job “sat in the ashes” (Job 2:8). Daniel 9:3 says, “Then I turned my face to the Lord God, seeking him by prayer and pleas for mercy with fasting and sackcloth and ashes.”

Regardless of your stance on Ash Wednesday, God’s call to repentance and humility remains central. He encourages us not to flaunt our fasting (Matthew 6:16-18) and to refrain from passing judgment on those with different preferences (Romans 14). As imperfect humans dependent on God’s grace, our need for repentance extends beyond just Ash Wednesday—it’s an everyday necessity.

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How to Celebrate Ash Wednesday

Churches who participate in Lent typically hold an Ash Wednesday service. Like Good Friday, this service has a solemn tone. Worship elements may include a reflective sermon, public penance, confession, and moments of extended silence. At the end of the service, the priest will sprinkle ashes on the heads of congregants. In addition, those taking part in the Lenten season will start their fast on Ash Wednesday. Fasting from a full meal or a specific habit symbolizes Jesus’ 40 days of fasting in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11). Catholics also refrain from eating meat on Ash Wednesday, as well as on Fridays during Lent.

Create a Lenten devotional plan.

Take advantage of online resources to plan a series of devotionals or readings for the entire Lenten season, tailoring it to your specific preferences and spiritual needs.

Share the meaning of Ash Wednesday with others.

Engage in conversations with friends, family, or coworkers about the significance of Ash Wednesday. Ask if they are participating in Lent and see where the discussion goes.

Things to do on Ash Wednesday

For those participating in the season of Lent, here are some ideas for your Ash Wednesday:

Attend an Ash Wednesday service at your local church.

Participate in a worship service where ashes are traditionally applied to the forehead in the shape of a cross. It’s a meaningful way to start the Lenten season.

Pray for repentance.

Take time for personal prayer, reflecting on areas in your life where you need repentance. Seek God’s grace and forgiveness.

Fast or abstain from a particular indulgence:

Consider fasting from a specific food, habit, or indulgence as a symbolic gesture of self-discipline and dependence on God. Ideas include a specific meal, sugar, television, or social media.

Read and meditate on relevant Scriptures.

Spend time reading passages that focus on repentance, humility, and renewal, such as Psalm 51, Isaiah 58, or Joel 2.

However you choose to celebrate Lent, we invite you to spend Easter weekend with us at our church. Our doors are open, and we look forward to reflecting on the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ together.